Orbeez! If you’re a cat owner, you may have heard some rumours floating around about whether Orbeez are toxic to cats. As a pet owner, it’s natural to be concerned about the safety of your furry friend, and that’s why we’re here to help. 

In this blog post, we will explore the potential risks that Orbeez can pose to cats and whether they are safe to play with around our feline companions. 

So, let’s dive in and find out if these squishy little balls are a harmless toy or a hidden danger for our beloved pets.

What Are Orbeez?

Orbeez are small, colorful, water-absorbent balls that are popular for use in sensory play and decoration. While Orbeez are not specifically designed for use with pets, many people may wonder if they are safe to use around cats.

Are Orbeez Toxic to Cats?

According to the ASPCA, Orbeez are not listed as toxic to cats. However, that does not necessarily mean they are safe for cats to ingest. Ingesting non-food items can pose a choking hazard or cause intestinal blockages, which can be dangerous or even fatal for cats.

In addition, the absorbent nature of Orbeez means that they can expand when they come into contact with moisture. If a cat were to ingest Orbeez, they could potentially expand in the cat’s digestive tract and cause an obstruction.

Furthermore, there is no research that specifically investigates the effects of Orbeez on cats. As such, it is difficult to say with certainty whether Orbeez are completely safe for cats.

Orbeez are generally considered safe for humans, they can be toxic to cats if ingested. Orbeez may contain substances that are harmful to cats, such as dyes, fragrances, or preservatives. 

When ingested, Orbeez can cause gastrointestinal problems, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or dehydration. In severe cases, Orbeez ingestion can lead to intestinal blockages, which may require surgical intervention.

If you suspect that your cat has ingested Orbeez, it’s important to seek veterinary care immediately. The vet may perform an X-ray or ultrasound to determine the location and size of the Orbeez in the cat’s digestive system. 

Treatment may involve inducing vomiting, administering fluids or laxatives, or performing surgery to remove the Orbeez.

Can Cats Play with Orbeez Safely?

Although Orbeez are generally safe for humans to play with, there are some risks associated with cats playing with Orbeez. 

For example, Orbeez can pose a choking hazard if a cat ingests them, and they can also cause intestinal blockages. 

Additionally, Orbeez may contain substances that are toxic to cats, such as dyes or fragrances.

To ensure that cats can play with Orbeez safely, cat owners should take some safety measures. These include:

  • Keep Orbeez out of reach of cats, especially unsupervised ones.
  • Always supervise cats while playing with Orbeez and intervene if necessary.
  • Use Orbeez that are made specifically for pets, which are larger and less likely to cause choking or blockages.

What Should You Do If Your Cat Ingests Orbeez?

If your cat ingests Orbeez, you should take the following steps:

  • Stay calm and don’t panic.
  • Contact your veterinarian right away and explain the situation.
  • Follow the vet’s instructions carefully.
  • Monitor your cat’s behavior and symptoms closely.
  • Keep the Orbeez packaging or sample for identification purposes.
  • Prevent further access to Orbeez by keeping them out of reach of your cat.

Conclusion

In general, it is best to avoid using Orbeez around cats to prevent any potential harm. If you suspect that your cat has ingested Orbeez or any other non-food item, it is important to contact your veterinarian immediately for advice and treatment.